Part of a massive six-resort complex on an excellent stretch of beach in the upscale Playacar neighborhood just south of Playa del Carmen, the Riu Palace Mexico was renovated in 2012 and is the second-best overall hotel of the six, with the second-most modern rooms. The three other sections of the greater resort complex that are directly on the beach are the Riu Palace Riviera Maya (A2), the Riu Playacar (Baa1), and the Riu Yucatan (Baa2). The Riu Palace Mexico and the Riu Palace Riviera Maya are the most upscale and have the best drinks, but rates among these four beachfront sections are usually very comparable. The Lupita (B2) and Tequila (Ba2) sections aren’t directly on the beach, which is predominantly why they have lower Overall Beach Resort Ratings; logically, they’re also the two most economical of the six sections. The food at the Palace Mexico is just so-so, which is the case at all six sections (this is the main factor keeping the Palace Mexico’s Overall Beach Resort Rating below the A range); but the property offers an impeccable, very wide white-sand beach, contemporary rooms with jacuzzis and liquor dispensers, 24-hour room service, a spa with hot stone massages and mud body wraps (among other treatments), an 18-hole golf course right across the street, a solid fitness center, a chic swimming pool area with a great swim-up bar and in-water loungers, and an overall atmosphere that’s both social and quiet. Palace Mexico guests have full access to all five surrounding sister properties. Activities at the greater complex include excellent scuba diving, snorkeling, parasailing, sailing, kayaking, tennis, jet skiing, and more.
Guests returning to the U.S. can take the COVID-19 antigen test on-site. There is no additional cost for all adults and children. This service is available at all Riu resorts in Mexico (except Riu Plaza Guadalajara), Jamaica, Aruba, and Punta Cana and is provided by an accredited medical testing lab that complies with the requirements of the CDC. Test results are received within 72 hours prior to departure, as required by the CDC. In the event of a positive test, Riu Hotels will provide an extension of up to 10 days at no cost.